Hi,

The previous owner of my 05 MCS took the vehicle through a carwash which knocked the antenna off. He had it replaced, but the keyless entry hasn't worked ever since. It's really starting to bug me, so I was wondering if anyone has had this issue before. The key can unlock/lock the door manually, and turn the car on. Only thing that doesn't work is the remote feature. Maintenance records show the following being done:

First visit

Antenna Assembly and Mast Replace

Second visit

("Key FOB not working") Remove and test batteries, clean inside and surface pads.
Comment: Body control model no signal. Recommend re-program body module. Sublet to do so.

Re-program body control module (master diagnostic)
Comment: System has short to ground. Went to program system shows short to ground can not re-program. Possible when antenna got broken system shorted out. Possible other system rear problem, more time needed to trace and locate.
Advice: More time needed to trace and locate problem (estimate $200-$600)

(no more records past this)

It's worth noting that this was not done at a MINI dealership.

Has anyone experienced something similar, or have any suggestions as to what to look for before I have to bring the car into the shop?

edit: I have tried reprogramming the key numerous times, using the following website:

http://www.ehow.com/how_7507645_prog...ni-cooper.html

with no luck, although I don't understand how you can "remove the key without turning the ignition off". The only time my key will come out is when it's in the off position.

 

If i remember right, the keyless entry antannna is in the mirror...
Many folks removed their am/fm roof antenna since they use i-pods/phones/satellite for music...no issues.
Also of note...pre 2005 mini's have different keys than 2005 cars...and if i remember different programming needs...
And your 2005 key is charged in the ignition by induction....it does NOT feature a replacable battery. It is charged when driving....

 

The antenna splitter or control box is in the right side in back above the little pocket in the side panel. If you take off the panel, y can see it and it has a few inputs and outputs. I don't know which go to what, but maybe it's a start.

Here is a picture of my 2004 key from way back. (sorry cell phone cameras were not too good a few years ago. )

As mentioned they did change them but I thought they still had a battery. I guess you can see if it can be opened and look.

 

2005+minis (gen1) use a nickelmetal hydride rechargeble battery...tossing in a standard button cell that is no desgined to be charged may cause issues....the old style keys (up to 2004) had a user replacable battery.
An extra change in the 2005's, done to improve fm reception, was the addition of a fm diversity antanna (in the glass).....
What you need to do is go for a couple of long drives, try to recharge your keys....
Then maybe see if a freindly salesman at a mini dealer will reprogram your keys....a little song and dance about loving the car, and if it all works, maybe the wife is falling for the mini, and want to upgrade to a cabrio....possible future sale/goodwill for a 15 second job.....get a bussiness card....then swap keys in the future every few long trips/months!!
if you find the battery on the key has failed, you might be able to get one by ebay/etc, or maybe buy a new/uncut mini key online cheap (same style)sometimes they pop up pretty cheap....then take the battery out, and install it in your key...seems wasteful, but might be simplest, most surefire way to get the old key working witjout having the key's antitheft feature recoded to your car by the dealer....as must be redone with a new key (plus cutting).